One difference between the two schools is that Georgia has spread the rushing carries around. Kregg Lumpkin has 150 carries out of 395 total. Virginia Tech, on the other hand, has a go to guy in Branden Ore, who has more than 50% of the total team carries. Both backs average about 5 yards a carry.

The Hokies definitely have an advantage in turnover margin. They’re +7 on the season, while the Dawgs are -4 (and that number was much worse pre-Reggie Ball).

On average, Va. Tech scores about a point and one-half a game more than Georgia.

On defense, Georgia ranks ninth in total defense; Virginia Tech is first in the country. VT is also first in the country in scoring defense and gives up about eight points a game less than the Dawgs.

One other area where the Hokies have a distinct advantage is in the kicking game. Brandon Pace is perfect in extra points and a remarkable 17 of 18 in field goals. His longest this year is only 42 yards, though. Georgia? Let’s just say that it would be great if Coutu could make it back by December 30th.

Sagarin rates Georgia 34th in strength of schedule. He has Virginia Tech playing the 66th rated schedule.